Story perspectives

NHL Clears Babcock Amid Allegations; Oilers Consider Hiring

6/18/2026

Summary

Babcock Cleared

The NHL announced on June 18 2026 that it cleared former Columbus Blue Jackets coach Mike Babcock, removing restriction on his employment.
The Edmonton Oilers, who fired head coach Kris Knoblauch in May 2026 after a playoff loss and whose veterans Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl support the hire, will start talks with Babcock early next week.
The NHL Players’ Association called past allegations “very concerning” but noted the league’s clearance of Babcock.

Summary

Maples Leads Probe

Jared Maples, executive vice president and chief of security, led the investigation with a league-assigned lawyer and NHLPA representation.
The probe also examined additional allegations involving Patrik Laine beyond the phone-privacy claims.
The Oilers finished 2025-26 41-30-11, placed second in the Pacific Division, and lost to the Anaheim Ducks in six playoff games.
As of June 18, 2026, they were only NHL team without a head coach after Kris Knoblauch’s dismissal.

History

Historical Context

After the 310-day 2004-05 lockout, the NHL and NHLPA signed a CBA that introduced a salary-cap system guaranteeing players 54 percent of league revenues. In June 2026 the league cleared Columbus coach Mike Babcock, prompting the Edmonton Oilers—backed by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl—to consider hiring him after Kris Knoblauch’s dismissal, illustrating how the 2005 conduct precedent still shapes coaching decisions.

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Babcock Cleared

The NHL announced on June 18 2026 that it cleared former Columbus Blue Jackets coach Mike Babcock, removing restriction on his employment.
The Edmonton Oilers, who fired head coach Kris Knoblauch in May 2026 after a playoff loss and whose veterans Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl support the hire, will start talks with Babcock early next week.
The NHL Players’ Association called past allegations “very concerning” but noted the league’s clearance of Babcock.

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